Zyvex and Arkema today have announced their intention to strengthen their strategic partnership by jointly developing commercial nanomaterials applications. Through a new licensing arrangement, Arkema will use Zyvex's patented Kentera dispersion technology, in conjunction with its own Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWNTs). Arkema will also be the exclusive distributor in Europe of Zyvex's NanoSolve supply range.

A recognized industry leader, Arkema produces and distributes high-quality multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs). Its production capabilities, opened at the beginning of 2006, currently enable Arkema to manufacture 10 tons per year of high-purity MWNTs at its Lacq site (France). With this new facility, Arkema is planning a commercial development to fulfill the expectations of converters in the thermoplastics, epoxy resins, elastomers and coating sectors. Progress is also expected in the field of energy in which the use of carbon nanotubes should help manufacture energy-efficient batteries, super-capacitors and fuel cells.

“We are delighted to partner with Arkema since they consistently produce extremely high quality multi-walled nanotubes,” said Zyvex President Thomas A. Cellucci, PhD, MBA. “This alliance demonstrates the technical prowess and capabilities of our R&D pioneers who have developed novel and patented technologies in the nanomaterials arena. This partnership further enhances our position as a nanotechnology leader in Europe, North America and Asia.”

Zyvex is recognized worldwide as a leader in nanomaterials applications. Under the NanoSolve brand, the company markets additives and concentrates with exfoliated and dispersed nanomaterials, with adhesion to various polymers. Zyvex's NanoSolve products can deliver enhanced mechanical and electrical properties in polymers by selectively transferring the intrinsic properties of carbon nanotubes into composite materials for the Sporting Goods, Aerospace, Defense, and Automotive industries.

“Zyvex's NanoSolve product line provides superior dispersion capabilities, which are valuable to our efforts in nanomaterials,” said Christian Collette, PhD, Arkema Vice President - R&D. “We look forward to participating in joint development efforts with Zyvex and continuing to supply MWNTs for their commercial applications.”

“With Zyvex's NanoSolve product line, we can now offer the market probably the most relevant technical solution for high-tech composite nanomaterials developments,” said Jean-Marc Corpart, PhD, Arkema Director of New Business Developments – R&D. “It will perfectly complement Arkema's current Graphistrength MWNT range.”